Real Women Runner Profile:
It's Never Too Late to Start

SHE'S TRAINING TO RACE AGAIN!!!

Real Age: 39

Real Running Venue: Pacific Northwest, USA

Real Progress: Completed the Walk to Run (5k) Program! She ran her first 5K on May 20th, and did an amazing job. She even conquered the huge hill at the end without stopping! Her second race on July 4th resulted in a 11 MINUTE improvement over her first race time. WHAT A FEAT! She has progressed to running 5 to 6 miles at a stretch, and is doing a 5-mile race on October 7th.GO LINDA!!!!

Running History
Linda’s high school running experience was cut short due to knee problems and shin splints. A couple years later, Linda ran for a several months and found the ability to run again enjoyable, but due to work, time and physical constraints, did not continue a regular program.

Linda believes in listening to her body and taking it gently. It's been about 20 years, so it feels really good to get fresh air and exercise and do something for herself.

Running Obstacles
Finding time to schedule daily runs in between taking care of two young children. A friend helped her find the right running shoes and loaned her a running watch to make timing the runs possible.

Linda's Workout Schedule
Three to four 3 to 6 mile workouts a week, sometimes two days in a row falling on weekends to get the runs in. Walks on other days when possible.

How She is Finding Motivation
For several years, one of Linda's life goals was to run in a race of some kind. What better time to start reaching for those goals than the present? Support and encouragement of friends is important. She started by setting small goals, beginning with her first goal of making it to the next week in the Walk to Run program, and sometimes, simply completing the next day in the program. Other goals include running a 10K race, and perhaps, someday, finishing the Mt. Marathon race in Seward, Alaska.

What We Can Learn From Linda
It's never too late to start - and if she can do it, really, anyone can!